Motive vs. Plot

Attribute	Motive	Plot
Definition	The reason behind a character's actions	The sequence of events in a story
Importance	Drives character behavior and decisions	Drives the narrative forward
Revealed	Usually revealed through character dialogue or actions	Revealed through unfolding events in the story
Subjectivity	Can be subjective and open to interpretation	Usually objective and follows a specific structure

Introduction

When it comes to storytelling, two key elements that drive the narrative forward are motive and plot. While both are essential components of a well-crafted story, they serve different purposes and contribute to the overall structure and development of the narrative. In this article, we will explore the attributes of motive and plot, highlighting their differences and similarities.

Motive

Motive refers to the reason behind a character's actions or behavior in a story. It is what drives a character to make certain decisions or take specific actions throughout the narrative. A character's motive is often rooted in their desires, beliefs, fears, or past experiences, and it shapes their behavior and choices. Understanding a character's motive is crucial for readers to empathize with and connect to the character, as it provides insight into their inner workings and motivations.

• Motive drives character actions
• Rooted in desires, beliefs, fears, or past experiences
• Shapes character behavior and choices
• Provides insight into character motivations

Plot

Plot, on the other hand, refers to the sequence of events that make up a story. It encompasses the series of actions, conflicts, and resolutions that propel the narrative forward and create a sense of progression and development. The plot is the framework that holds the story together, guiding the reader through the various twists and turns that occur along the way. A well-structured plot is essential for maintaining the reader's interest and keeping them engaged in the story.

• Sequence of events in a story
• Includes actions, conflicts, and resolutions
• Propels the narrative forward
• Creates a sense of progression and development

Comparison

While motive and plot are distinct elements of storytelling, they are closely intertwined and work together to create a compelling narrative. Motive drives character actions, influencing the decisions they make and the paths they choose to follow. In contrast, plot provides the structure and framework for these actions to unfold, shaping the overall direction of the story and guiding the characters through their journey.

One key difference between motive and plot is their focus: motive centers on the internal motivations and desires of the characters, while plot focuses on the external events and conflicts that drive the story forward. Motive delves into the psychology of the characters, exploring their inner thoughts and emotions, while plot deals with the external challenges and obstacles they face in the world around them.

Despite these differences, motive and plot are interconnected in that they both contribute to the development and progression of the narrative. A character's motive can influence the events that occur in the plot, shaping the outcome of the story and driving the characters towards their goals. Conversely, the plot can also impact a character's motive, forcing them to reevaluate their beliefs and desires as they navigate through the challenges they encounter.

Conclusion

In conclusion, motive and plot are essential components of storytelling that work in tandem to create a rich and engaging narrative. While motive focuses on the internal motivations and desires of the characters, plot deals with the external events and conflicts that drive the story forward. By understanding the attributes of motive and plot, writers can craft compelling stories that resonate with readers and keep them invested in the characters and their journeys.